Nonlinear Stochastic Dynamics of Complex Systems, II: Potential of Entropic Force in Markov Systems with Nonequilibrium Steady State, Generalized Gibbs Function and Criticality

In this paper we revisit the notion of the "minus logarithm of stationary probability" as a generalized potential in nonequilibrium systems and attempt to illustrate its central role in an axiomatic approach to stochastic nonequilibrium thermodynamics of complex systems. It is demonstrated that this quantity arises naturally through both monotonicity results of Markov processes and as the rate function when a stochastic process approaches a deterministic limit. We then undertake a more detailed mathematical analysis of the consequences of this quantity, culminating in a necessary and sufficient condition for the criticality of stochastic systems. This condition is then discussed in the context of recent results about criticality in biological systemsComment: 28 page

Key to the terrestrial slugs (Gastropoda) of Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada

Three species of terrestrial slugs (Gastropoda) are native to Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada. At least twelve additional species have been accidentally introduced from Europe. Many of the introduced species are now widespread throughout the region; some are commonly found in natural forested habitats. Because of the complexity of the systematics of some of the introduced species, dissection of internal anatomical structures and DNA and other biochemical analyses may be required to distinguish cryptic species. Although this key to the terrestrial slugs of the Northeastern United States and Southeastern Canada was developed in 1973, it remains the best tool in identifying the terrestrial slug species of the region. Because it was published in a relatively obscure journal that is not readily available, we are placing it on this web site where it can be readily accessed.published or submitted for publicationis peer reviewe

Some Water Relations Of Three Western Grasses. Ii. Drought Resistance. Iii. Root Developments

Peer Reviewedhttps://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/142254/1/ajb214659.pd

The role of attachment in the relationship between child maltreatment and later emotional and behavioral functioning

Childhood maltreatment is an experience that is likely to have lasting effects on individuals\u27 emotional and behavioral functioning throughout their lifetimes. In particular, childhood maltreatment often is implicated in the etiology of numerous unfavorable psychological outcomes. Other research also suggested that there is a relationship between child maltreatment and the style of attachment that individuals exhibit post-abuse. Lastly, an association exists between individuals\u27 attachment styles and their emotional and behavioral functioning. Despite substantial documentation of these relationships, few studies examine childhood maltreatment, attachment, and emotional and behavioral functioning collectively. As a result, this study examined the relationships among childhood maltreatment, attachment relationships, and later emotional and behavioral functioning, including eating behaviors. In addition, this study examined the role that attachment serves in the relationship between child maltreatment and later functioning. One hundred participants completed five questionnaires assessing experiences of childhood maltreatment, attachment relationships, emotional and behavioral functioning, and eating behaviors. Results of this study indicated that those individuals who report childhood maltreatment are more likely to report unfavorable emotional and behavioral functioning, whereas those who report childhood maltreatment but who exhibit a secure attachment style to either a parent or a peer are less likely to exhibit unfavorable emotional and behavioral functioning. Further, both the experience of childhood maltreatment and attachment were significant predictors of individuals\u27 emotional and behavioral functioning. Finally, attachment contributed unique significant variance to the relationship between childhood maltreatment and emotional and behavioral functioning, particularly participants\u27 internalizing and total problems.; Such findings suggested that secure attachment may serve as a protective factor against problematic emotional and behavioral symptoms as children reach emerging adulthood, even when individuals have had childhood maltreatment experiences earlier in their lives. The importance of studying the relationships among these variables is discussed

When Should Force Directed Against a Police Officer Be Justified Under the Maine Criminal Code? - Toward a Coherent Theory of Law Enforcement Under the Code\u27s Justification Provision

In State v. Clisham, the Law Court unanimously found that section 104(1) of the Maine Criminal Code operated to justify the use of non-deadly force by a private citizen seeking to prevent an illegal search of his house by police officers. This Comment will focus on the justification provisions of the Maine Criminal Code as they relate to law enforcement practices and will examine how the Law Court\u27s most recent decision interpreting one of the provisions affects that relationship. This Comment will argue that the policy underlying the justification provisions mandates that the justification defense be denied to persons responding violently to an assertion of police authority, and that the Law Court\u27s interpretation of section 104 in Clisham represents a departure from this policy